Juba reassures Khartoum over its links with Sudanese rebels
October 29, 2012 (KHARTOUM) — The ruling National Congress Party (NCP) said they were reassured by the South Sudanese leadership over its commitment to the security deal signed recently and its links with Sudanese rebels.
Recently there were reports in Khartoum saying that Gibril Ibrahim leader of Justice and Equality movement was in Bentiu, Unity State, in South Sudan, where his group allegedly has a military camp. Gutibi Mahdi a NCP figures commented on the reports and warned it would be a setback to the signed deals.
Badr Al-Din Ahmed Ibrahim, NCP spokesperson, said on Monday they ” received strong reassurances” from South Sudanese leaders that they have stopped their support to Darfur rebel leaders and the Sudan people’s Liberation Movement North (SPLM-N).
In statements to SMC, which is close to the Sudanese intelligence service, Badr Al-Din, said that the success of the security arrangements deal signed in Addis Ababa on 27 September depends on the expulsion of rebel groups and to stop any logistical or military support to them.
He further added that the Sudanese government has implemented what was agreed upon in the security arrangements, referring to South Sudanese rebels that Khartoum recently expelled from different cities and areas in the country.
On 30 September, Sudanese security forces assaulted the house of James Gai, leader of South Sudan Liberation Movement/Army (SSLM/A) in Al-Fitaihab suburb in Khartoum. The police arrested five officers and 70 individuals and seized 5 heavy guns. However, the rebel leader reportedly escaped to a rebel area in South Sudan.
Sudan says the security deal provides to withdraw the ninth and tenth divisions of the SPLA based in Blue Nile and South Kordofan, in reference to the rebel Sudan people’s Liberation Movement –North which fights against Khartoum since June 2011.
A joint security committee chaired by defence ministers from both countries is expected to meet in Juba soon but no date was announced yet.
Also, Sudanese foreign minister said two days ago that President Omer Al-Bashir will visit Juba during the upcoming days.
(ST)